NVIDIA announced that an upgrade kit featuring the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT GPU is now available for the Mac Pro.

Priced at $279, the GeForce 8800 GT upgrade kit allows first-generation Mac Pro users to optimize their Mac with the same powerful solution already available in second-generation Mac Pro systems.

“The computer is more visual than ever, and Mac users in particular demand an exceptional visual experience,” said Ujesh Desai, general manager of GeForce desktop GPU business at NVIDIA. “Adding a GeForce 8800 GT to the first-generation Mac Pro system will deliver a major graphics boost, resulting in faster processing for a complete range of visual computing applications.”

The NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT features 112 high-powered processing cores and supports dual 30-inch Apple Cinema HD displays. Compatible with any Intel-based Mac Pro, the GeForce 8800 GT includes NVIDIA’s video processing technology which offloads H.264 decode enabling smooth playback of high-definition video.

North American customers can purchase the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT upgrade kit online for $279. Consumers outside of the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada should order from The Apple Store.